Advocates argue that legal TX sports betting could inject billions into the state’s economy, while opponents warn of societal costs. With the 2025 legislative session approaching, major players in sports, business, and politics are ramping up efforts to bring regulated betting to the Lone Star State.
A study by the gaming research firm Eilers & Krejcik underscores the potential economic impact of legalization. The report estimates Texas could generate over $2.6 billion annually in economic activity, creating 8,000 jobs and contributing $363 million in direct tax revenue.
Texas Rangers co-owner Neil Leibman highlighted the broader benefits:
“Legalizing it would allow us to keep billions in revenue here at home, supporting crucial needs like education and lowering property taxes — all without raising other taxes.”
Despite these projections, legislative hurdles remain steep. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate agenda, has long been a roadblock to gambling legislation. He recently dismissed the likelihood of a bill advancing, stating, “The votes aren’t there.”
Advocates Rally for Reform
The Sports Betting Alliance, a coalition that includes the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and Houston Rockets, along with major betting platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, has been at the forefront of lobbying efforts.
Former Texas Governor Rick Perry, a spokesperson for the group, framed the issue as a matter of personal choice:
“This is about giving Texans the opportunity to decide if they want a regulated and taxed sports betting industry.”
Professional sports teams have echoed this sentiment. Houston Texans owner Cal McNair emphasized the benefits of regulation, saying,
“We think a legal and regulated betting industry is best for our fans and partners and would protect the integrity of competition.”
Similarly, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta added,
“No one wins with an illegal market as robust as the one in Texas.”
State Representative Jeff Leach, who sponsored a sports betting bill in 2023, framed the issue as one of liberty and safety:
“Our data shows that this is rampant now in the state of Texas. A million sports bets were placed per year, totaling over $2 billion. And all of it is unregulated. It’s unsafe and extremely risky for everyone involved.”
The Road Ahead
While Governor Greg Abbott has softened his stance on gambling, concerns remain. Critics, including State Senator Bob Hall, argue that gambling poses risks to vulnerable Texans, potentially leading to financial ruin.
“I am not in favor of legalized gambling at all,”
Hall said, citing the dangers of addiction.
Proponents counter that a legal framework would include safeguards, such as public education campaigns to address compulsive gambling. As Leach noted,
“Understanding how widespread sports betting is, I believe the state should step in and place appropriate guardrails so that it’s done safely.”
As Texas lawmakers prepare to revisit the issue, the stakes are high. Advocates see an opportunity to modernize the state’s gaming laws, capitalize on untapped revenue, and offer Texans greater freedom.
Opponents, however, remain firm, warning that the societal costs could outweigh the financial benefits. For now, Texans continue to bet billions illegally, while the debate over legalization heats up once again.
